Storm Season Preparation

Preparing for storms and flooding

The first thing you should do to get ready for storm season is assess whether your property might flood. Talk to your neighbors and learn about the history of flooding or landslides where you live.

If you think you might experience flooding, you can take several actions to get ready before seasonal storms arrive. Some of the actions on this page require permits that could take up to a year, and the help of hired professionals.

Elevate large items

Elevate your furnace, water heater, washer/dryer, and electric panel if they are susceptible to flooding. Use masonry blocks, concrete, or pressure-treated lumber so that they are at least 12” above the projected flood level.

Retrofit your house

If your house might flood, consider some retrofits that will improve its ability to withstand water. Most of these changes require time and money. Use a search engine to look up “drainage” for the guidance of drainage professionals.

Redirect where flood waters flow

Direct flows from downspouts at least 5 feet away from your house foundation, without sending flows to adjacent properties. Never discharge water over the edge of a steep hill. Coordinate with the Seattle Department of Planning and Development for approved points to discharge water.

Create “flow paths” in your yard where water can flow during a storm without damaging your neighbors’ properties or valuable gardens.